9 phrases that make you seem insecure

We all have our insecurities, but showing them to the world is not always the best option.

While this article certainly isn’t going to help you kick any deep-seated insecurities, it will certainly help you identify phrases that shout your insecurity to the world.

In reality, you’re much more capable than you give yourself credit for. The first step to changing how you feel about yourself is to control the words that come out of your mouth.

Changing how you talk about yourself can actually start to influence how you think about yourself.

Don’t use these nine phrases that make you seem insecure

These are some of the more common insecure phrases people use on a daily basis.

1. I don’t mean to brag, but…

Some of the most insecure people are the loudest and seem to be the most full of themselves.

People who routinely brag about themselves are not fooling anyone. Stop bragging and adopt a humble attitude.

2. Sorry to bother you…

For the most part, the word “sorry” should not be used in our everyday conversations.

Unless you wronged someone, stop being sorry. Use an assertive presence and manners which don’t involve you apologizing every other minute.

3. Could you maybe…

If you need someone to do something, politely ask them to do it.

Throwing in the word “maybe” shows you are nervous about asking the person and ultimately gives them the power in the conversation.

4. Would it be possible…

In the same vein as “could you maybe,” this phrase shows you are already defensive and not confident in what you are saying.

This gives a clear direction to the recipient that you don’t honestly believe in what you are saying and gives them complete control of what happens next.

5. I’m no expert but…

Rather than telling someone you’re unqualified, let them make that determination on their own.

Many people who start with this phrase actually are the most qualified person in the room to talk about the subject, but they lack confidence.  

6. Do you think he/she’s prettier/better looking than me?

I don’t know that we need to expand on this one, but it’s said so frequently it needs to be stated. 

7. Am I making sense?

There is a clear difference between “does that make sense” and “am I making sense.”

The latter indicates you are not confident you communicate clearly, while the former insinuates the other person may not understand. While we don’t want to talk down to others, asking if you’re speaking clearly isn’t a great way to instill confidence.

8. I hope that’s ok

When you complete a task or decide without consulting others, some insecure individuals will use this phrase to validate their insecurity.

What if it wasn’t ok for the person you’re talking to? What’s done is done, and it’s time to own it. 

9. Just my opinion

Unless you stated a fact, we all know it was just your opinion.

Avoid ending your statements with this insecure phrase, and complete your ideas with conviction and confidence. 

Wrapping it up

We all have our insecurities but have different ways of showing them. As you battle with your internal issues, do your best to portray yourself in a confident yet humble light.

Most of these phrases above can be eliminated from our vocabularies without affecting our communication’s overall message. 

Choose your words and phrases carefully.